In the production of sound, vibrations (erroneously called waves), have an important agency, but they have no act or part in its conveyance.
The varying intensities of sound, and the distance to which it reaches, are in direct ratio with the kind of force applied in its production, the character of the resistance offered and the medium of communication employed.
CHAPTER XII.
SOME OF THE RESULTS OF THE FOREGOING THEORIES.
The theories thus asserted may be regarded as exceedingly radical in their character. Their influence may not be fully estimated. Marvellous in extent are the ramifications which proceed from these sources, and few are the subjects of human thought and investigation which will not be, to a greater or less degree, affected by their influence.
New channels of thought and investigation will be opened, and old theories which now have the confidence of great minds and great numbers, will quietly sink into oblivion.
The blank astonishment and incredulity with which these theories will be received, will soon be followed by acceptance, and the world will wonder why these things have been so long delayed.